Political Science Overview

Study Notes

Political Science is a classical discipline that studies political phenomena and its nature.
It uses theoretical tools to interpret politically meaningful phenomena and improve human understanding.

Aristotle is considered the "Father of Political Science".
- He believed man is a political animal by nature.
- He wrote the book "Politics".
Niccolo Machiavelli is considered the "Father of Modern Political Science".
- He believed that the end justifies the means
- He wrote the book "The Prince".

Political Theory examines the application of contemporary political concepts such as human rights, equality, peace and justice.
Comparative Politics contrasts different government and political systems to provide context.
International Relations studies state-to-state relations and the effects of globalization.
Political Behavior investigates individual attitudes, knowledge and actions in response to political variables.
Public Policy analyzes governmental policies, motivations and implementation.
Public Administration examines the administrative schemes implemented by government officials.

Alfred Boyer defines politics as the interaction between civil society and government during governance.
Max Weber defines politics as the exercise of power within a state.
David Easton defines politics as the authoritative allocation of scarce values.

Nation refers to a group of people with a unifying culture, language, and shared experiences.
State refers to a community of people within a specific territory, ruled by a government that commands obedience and is independent from foreign control.